Santa helping children during emergencies

Virginia Beach, Va. – Along with bringing gifts to all the boys and girls in the world, Santa has a very special task at hand in Hampton Roads this Christmas.

Santa has teamed up with Virginia Beach EMS to help first responders by radio and cell phone help children cope during emergencies.

“With their help, they can call me,” said Santa. “I don’t have to be at each rescue scene. I just need to be able to talk to the children.”

Since 2004, Santa has taken calls from frightened or worried children, calming them down and giving them a little Christmas cheer after having to call 911.

Since the program started, Santa has talked to about one hundred children. Virginia Beach EMS Division Chief Bruce Nedelko says the program is so successful because Santa is someone all children know and trust which is crucial in helping them relax.